Handlebar

ABSTRACT

A handlebar for controlling a travelling direction of a vehicle includes: a transverse support extending along a first axial direction; a first grippable element extending from a first end of the transverse support and having a free end; a cavity in the transverse support or the first grippable element, the cavity communicating with: an opening in an external surface of the transverse support or the first grippable element, and a cavity entrance in an external surface of the transverse support or the first grippable element, wherein the cavity entrance is spaced from the opening; and a mounting arrangement including a mounting plate within the cavity, the mounting plate including: a first face abutting a contact surface within the cavity and is accessible via the opening; a second face opposite to the first face and accessible via the cavity entrance; and a hole for receiving a fastener for mounting an attachment.

FIELD

The present teachings relate to a handlebar for controlling a travellingdirection of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND

It is known for a variety of vehicles to incorporate a handlebar, suchas for example, push bicycles, motorcycles, tricycles and quadracycles.A handlebar is primarily used to control a travelling direction of thevehicle to which it is incorporated. A handlebar provides a handposition for a user that allows the user to pivot the handlebar toeffect a change in vehicle travelling direction. However, it is commonfor a handlebar to have one or more secondary functions. For example,such secondary functions may include: providing a mounting platform forcontrol mechanisms (e.g. brake levers, gear levers etc.) and accessories(e.g. a bell, a horn, a GPS device, a cyclocomputer etc.); and providingone or more supplementary hand positions for the user of the handlebar.

To mount an attachment to a handlebar, such as for example a brake levermechanism, it is known to first secure the attachment to a circularclamp. To mount the attachment to the handlebar, the circular clamp isslid over a free end of the handlebar and pushed along the handlebar,away from the free end. Once the clamp is in the desired position, theclamp is secured to the handlebar, for example, by tightening the clampto increase the friction between the clamp and the handlebar.

It is common for a handlebar to have a circular profile with a 24 mmdiameter, and for the circular clamp to be sized accordingly. Handlebarsknown in the art require such a circular profile along at least aportion of the handlebar extending between the free end and the desiredposition of the attachment. Otherwise, the circular clamp may not beable to fit over the free end of the handlebar, the circular clamp maynot be able to be slid along the handlebar, and/or the circular clampmay not be able to be securely attached to the handlebar.

Since known handlebars are restricted to having a circular profile alongpart or all of their length, the design of the shape of known handlebarsis inflexible and restricted. The present invention aims to overcome ormitigate the problems associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect, there is provided a handlebar forcontrolling a travelling direction of a vehicle. The handlebarcomprises: a transverse support for mounting to a vehicle, thetransverse support extending substantially along a first axialdirection; a first grippable element extending from a first end of thetransverse support, the first grippable element including a free end;and a mounting arrangement for mounting an attachment to the handlebar.The mounting arrangement comprises a mounting plate arranged to at leastpartially abut a surface of the transverse support or the firstgrippable element, the mounting plate having a first face. The firstface includes a hole for receiving a fastener for mounting anattachment.

Advantageously, the mounting arrangement allows an attachment to besecurely mounted to the handlebar without the need to use a circularmounting bracket, as is common in the prior art. Since a circularmounting bracket is no longer required, the handlebar is not limited tohaving a circular profile. This allows the handlebar to have beneficialshapes, which may, for example, reduce the aerodynamic drag of thehandlebar and/or improve the ergonomics of the handlebar.

The hole in the mounting plate may be a threaded hole.

The mounting plate may be at least partially located within a cavityformed in the transverse support or the first grippable element. Thefirst face may be at least partially accessible via an opening in anexternal surface of the transverse support or the first grippableelement.

By locating the mounting plate at least partially in a cavity, themounting plate is less exposed to air travelling over the handlebar.Therefore, the mounting plate may have little or no effect on theaerodynamic drag of the handlebar.

The opening in the transverse support or the first grippable element mayface a second axial direction substantially perpendicular to the firstaxial direction.

The first face may have at least one spatial dimension which is greaterthan at least one spatial dimension of the opening, such that themounting plate may be prevented from passing through the opening.

An area of the first face may be greater than an area of the opening.

Advantageously, this helps to retain the mounting plate within thecavity.

The mounting plate may include a second face opposite to the first face.The second face may be accessible via a cavity entrance in thetransverse support or the first grippable element. The cavity entrancemay be spaced from the opening.

When attaching an attachment to the handlebar, a person may insert oneor more fingers into the cavity via the cavity entrance to press thefirst face of the mounting plate against the opening.

The handlebar may further comprise a removable cap arranged to close thecavity entrance.

The hole in the first face may extend through the second face.

Advantageously, extending the hole through the second face allows longerfasteners to be used to mount an attachment to the handlebar, since thefastener can pass through the mounting plate.

The mounting plate may be removable from the cavity via the cavityentrance.

This allows the mounting plate to be removed for repair or forreplacement.

A position of the hole relative to a perimeter of the opening may beadjustable in at least one direction.

The position of the hole relative to the perimeter of the opening may beadjustable in two perpendicular directions.

Advantageously, this allows the position of the attachment to beadjusted relative to the handlebar to suit the needs of the person usingthe handlebar.

A portion of the first face may be arranged to abut a contact surface ofthe cavity. The contact surface may be adjacent the opening. The firstface and the contact surface may have corresponding curved profiles.

The first face and the contact surface may have arcuate profiles.

Advantageously, this allows adjustment which is otherwise not possibleas there is no traditional clamp to adjust.

Further, this allows the orientation of an attachment mounted to thehandlebar to be adjusted relative to an orientation of the handlebar.For example, when the attachment includes a brake lever, it is importantto adjust the position of the brake lever so that the user can reach itwith their fingers.

The external surface of the transverse support or the first grippableelement comprising the opening may have a curved profile. Said externalsurface may have an arcuate profile.

Advantageously, this allows the orientation of an attachment mounted tothe handlebar to be adjusted relative to an orientation of thehandlebar.

The handlebar may further comprise a first tunnel opening and a secondtunnel opening. The first tunnel opening may be adjacent the mountingarrangement. The second tunnel opening may be formed in the transversesupport and be spaced from the first tunnel opening. The first tunnelopening and the second tunnel opening may be in communication with atunnel for receiving a cable therethrough. Said tunnel may be formedwithin at least a portion of the transverse support.

The mounting arrangement may be located on the first grippable element.The first tunnel opening may be formed in the first grippable element.

This helps to ensure that cabling from, for example, a braking mechanismor a gear mechanism, is not exposed to air travelling over thehandlebar. Therefore, advantageously, the cabling may have little or noadverse effect on the aerodynamic drag of the handlebar.

The transverse support may comprise a mounting portion for mounting to avehicle. The second tunnel opening may be formed in or adjacent to saidmounting portion.

Advantageously, this helps to ensure that cabling is not exposed to airtravelling over the handlebar.

The handlebar may further comprise an attachment secured to the mountingarrangement.

The attachment may be chosen from one of: a brake mechanism; a gearshift mechanism; a combined brake and gear shift mechanism; a bell; or acyclocomputer.

The attachment may comprise an attachment mount including a hole. Afastener may pass through the hole in the attachment mount and the holein the mounting plate such that the attachment is secured to themounting plate.

The mounting arrangement may be located on an attachment portion of thefirst grippable element. The attachment portion may have a non-circularprofile in a plane normal to a longitudinal axis of the attachmentportion.

Advantageously, the attachment portion may be shaped to, for example,reduce the aerodynamic drag of the attachment portion and/or to increasethe comfort of a person gripping the attachment portion.

The attachment portion may have a substantially aerofoil-shaped profilein a plane parallel to a second axial direction. Said second axialdirection may be substantially perpendicular to the first axialdirection.

Advantageously, the aerofoil shaped profile reduces the aerodynamic dragof the attachment portion.

At least a portion of the first grippable element may have anon-circular profile in a plane normal to a longitudinal axis of thefirst grippable element.

Advantageously, the grippable element may be shaped to, for example,reduce the aerodynamic drag of the grippable element and/or to make thegrippable element more ergonomic, i.e. increase the comfort of a persongripping the grippable element. Known handlebars do not provide thesebenefits. This is because known handlebars require grippable elementswith circular profiles to allow attachments such as brake levers to bemounted to the handlebar.

The first grippable element may include an end portion comprising thefree end. The first grippable element may have a non-circular profile ina plane normal to the longitudinal axis along said end portion.

Advantageously, the end region of the grippable element may be shapedto, for example, reduce the aerodynamic drag of the end region of thegrippable element and/or to increase the comfort of a person grippingthe end region of the grippable element.

At least a portion of the end portion may have a profile including atleast one substantially flat side. Said profile may be in a plane normalto the longitudinal axis.

Providing at least a portion of the end portion with a flattened profilemay improve the ability of a person to grip the end portion. This isbecause the flat side inhibits a person's hand from rotating about theend portion. Further, the flat side may provide the end portion with atruncated aerofoil shaped profile, which may reduce the aerodynamic dragof the end portion.

A majority or all of the first grippable element may have a non-circularprofile in a plane normal to the longitudinal axis.

Advantageously, this allows a majority or all of the grippable elementto be shaped to, for example, reduce the aerodynamic drag of thegrippable element and/or to increase the comfort of a person grippingthe grippable element.

The first grippable element may extend from the first end of thetransverse support at a non-zero angle thereto.

This may provide a more comfortable hand position to a person grippingthe grippable element.

The first grippable element may extend from the first end of thetransverse support such that the longitudinal axis of the firstgrippable element follows a curved path.

The first grippable element may be at least partially arcuate.

This may provide multiple different gripping positions along thegrippable element.

At least a portion of the first grippable element may have asubstantially aerofoil-shaped profile in a plane parallel to a secondaxial direction. Said second axial direction may be substantiallyperpendicular to the first axial direction.

Advantageously, the aerofoil shaped profile reduces the aerodynamic dragof the grippable element.

The substantially aerofoil-shaped profile may have a truncated trailingedge.

Advantageously, providing the aerofoil-shaped profile with a truncatedtrailing edge may improve the comfort of a person gripping that portionof the handlebar. Further, truncating the trailing edge may have littleor no adverse effect on the drag-reducing properties of theaerofoil-shaped profile.

The first grippable element may have a non-uniform profile in a planenormal to the longitudinal axis of the first grippable element along atleast a portion of the first grippable element.

Advantageously, this may allow the grippable element to be ergonomicallyshaped.

At least a portion of the transverse support may have a non-circularprofile in a plane normal to a longitudinal axis of the transversesupport.

Advantageously, the transverse support may be shaped to, for example,reduce the aerodynamic drag of the transverse support and/or to increasethe comfort of a person gripping the transverse support.

At least a portion of the transverse support may have a substantiallyaerofoil-shaped profile in a plane parallel to a second axial direction,said second axial direction substantially perpendicular to the firstaxial direction.

Advantageously, the aerofoil shaped profile reduces the aerodynamic dragof the transverse support.

The substantially aerofoil-shaped profile may have a truncated trailingedge.

Advantageously, providing the aerofoil-shaped profile with a truncatedtrailing edge may improve the comfort of a person gripping that portionof the handlebar. Further, truncating the trailing edge may have littleor no adverse effect on the drag-reducing properties of theaerofoil-shaped profile.

The transverse support may comprise: a mounting portion for mounting toa vehicle; and a first transverse portion extending between the mountingportion and the first grippable element. The first transverse portionmay have a substantially aerofoil-shaped profile

defined in a plane parallel to the second axial direction. The mountingportion may have a substantially aerofoil-shaped profile defined in aplane parallel to the second axial direction.

The substantially aerofoil-shaped profile may have a truncated trailingedge.

Advantageously, providing the aerofoil-shaped profile with a truncatedtrailing edge may improve the comfort of a person gripping that portionof the handlebar. Further, truncating the trailing edge may have littleor no adverse effect on the drag-reducing properties of theaerofoil-shaped profile.

The first grippable element may include an ergonomic portion. Theergonomic portion may be contoured to correspond to at least a portionof a gripping hand.

Advantageously, this increases the comfort of the person gripping thegrippable element.

The handlebar may further comprise a second grippable element extendingfrom a second end of the transverse support. The second grippableelement may be substantially a mirror image of the first grippableelement about a plane normal to the first axial direction.

The transverse support and/or the first grippable element may be formedat least partially from carbon fiber.

The transverse support may include a mounting portion comprising amounting structure for mounting the handlebar to a vehicle.

The mounting structure may comprise a clamp.

According to a second aspect, there is provided a vehicle comprising thehandlebar according to the first aspect.

The vehicle may be one of: a bicycle; a tricycle; or a quadracycle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are now disclosed by way of example only with reference tothe drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a bicycle comprising a handlebar according toan embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the handlebar according to the embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the handlebar shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the handlebar shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the handlebar shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the handlebar shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a magnified rear view of a grippable element according to theembodiment;

FIG. 8 is a front magnified view of a mounting arrangement according tothe embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a rear cross-sectional view of the mounting arrangement shownin FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a front isometric view of a mounting plate according to theembodiment;

FIG. 11 is a first side view of the mounting plate shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a rear isometric view of the mounting plate shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a second side view of the mounting plate shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a removable cap according to theembodiment;

FIG. 15 is a first side view of an attachment secured to the mountingarrangement shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 with its skirt in a retractedposition;

FIG. 16 is a first side view of the attachment shown in FIG. 15 with itsskirt in an extended position;

FIG. 17 is an isometric second side view of the attachment shown in FIG.15;

FIG. 18 is a lower view of the handlebar shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the first grippable element alongline A-A shown in 25 FIG. 5;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting portion along line B-Bshown in FIG. 4; and

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the first transverse portion alongline C-C shown in FIG. 4.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S)

A handlebar 100 is used for controlling a travelling direction of avehicle, such as a push bicycle, a motorcycle, a tricycle, or aquadracycle.

FIG. 1 shows an example where the vehicle comprising the handlebar 100is a push bicycle 212. The push bicycle 212 includes the handlebar 100,a frame 214, a front wheel 216 a, a rear wheel 216 b and a seat 218.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the vehicle may be a motorcycle,a tricycle (motorized or non-motorized), or a quadracycle (motorized ornon-motorized). A quadracycle includes any four-wheeled vehicle. Thevehicle may include more than four wheels.

With reference to FIGS. 2 to 6, the handlebar 100 includes a transversesupport 102, a first grippable element 104 a and a second grippableelement 104 b. The first grippable element 104 a includes a first freeend 112 a, and the second grippable element 104 b includes a second freeend 112 b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the transverse support 102, the firstgrippable element 104 a and the second grippable element 104 b areformed at least partially from carbon fiber. However, in alternativeembodiments (not shown), one or more of the transverse support 102, thefirst grippable element 104 a and the second grippable element 104 b maybe formed from any alternative suitable material, such as alloys ofaluminum, titanium or steel for example.

The grippable elements 104 a, 104 b are each for receiving a grippinghand of a user of the handlebar 100. The transverse support 102 supportsthe grippable elements 104 a, 104 b, and provides moment arms forpivoting the handlebar 100 via the grippable elements 104 a, 104 b. Thetransverse support 102 may also be suitable for receiving a grippinghand.

The transverse support 102 includes a mounting portion 108, an elongatefirst transverse portion 110 a and an elongate second transverse portion110 b. The first grippable element 104 a extends from a first end 109 aof the transverse support 102, i.e. from an end of the first transverseportion 110 a furthest from the mounting portion 108. Likewise, thesecond grippable element 104 b extends from a second end 109 b of thetransverse support 102, i.e. from an end of the second transverseportion 110 b furthest from the mounting portion 108. As such, the firsttransverse portion 110 a extends between the mounting portion 108 andthe first grippable element 104 a, and the second transverse portion 110b extends between the mounting portion 108 and the second grippableelement 104 b.

The mounting portion 108 includes a mounting structure for mounting thehandlebar 100 to the bicycle 212. In the illustrated embodiment, themounting structure is a clamp 111 including a circular aperture 113. Aportion of a steering tube 220 is received within the aperture 113 ofthe clamp 111, and is secured in place using fasteners (not shown).

The steering tube 220 passes through a head tube 222, which is part ofthe frame 214 of the bicycle 212, and a fork 224 extends from thesteering tube 220. The front wheel 216 a is mounted to the fork 224, asis known in the art. The head tube 222 includes a head set with bearingsthat allow for pivoting of the handlebar 100 about an axis 226 causingthe fork 224 to pivot about the axis 226 with respect to the frame 214.

The handlebar 100 is mounted to the bicycle 212 such that pivoting ofthe handlebar 100 about an axis 226 causes the fork 224 to pivot aboutthe axis 226 with respect to the frame 214. Pivoting of the fork 224about the axis 226 causes the front wheel 216 a to pivot about the axis226. As such, pivoting of the handlebar 100 about the axis 226 allows auser of the bicycle 212 to change the travelling direction of thebicycle 212 when the bicycle 212 is moving.

The transverse support 102 extends substantially along a first axialdirection 106 (represented by a dot-dash line in FIGS. 2 to 4 and 6). Inthe illustrated embodiment, the transverse support 102 does not extendparallel to the first axial direction 106. Instead, the first transverseportion 110 a and the second transverse portion 110 b extend away fromthe mounting portion 108 at an acute angle relative to the first axialdirection 106. As such, the transverse support 102 has a substantiallychevron-shaped profile when viewed as shown in FIG. 3.

Advantageously, providing the transverse support 102 with achevron-shaped profile increases the stiffness of the transverse support102. Further, since the first and second transverse portions 110 a, 110b extend away from the mounting portion 108 at an acute angle relativeto the first axial direction 106, the mounting portion 108 has a smallerlength as measured perpendicular to the first axial direction 106relative to if the transverse support 102 was straight. This is becausethe first and second transverse portions 110 a, 110 b space thegrippable element 104 a, 104 b from the steering tube 220 to provide acomfortable riding position, instead of the mounting portion 108.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the transverse support 102 mayextend parallel to the first axial direction 106, i.e. the transversesupport 102 may be substantially straight. Alternatively, the transversesupport 102 may have any suitable non-straight and non-chevron shape.

With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first grippable element 104 aextends from the transverse support 102 along a first longitudinal axis114 a, and the second grippable element 104 b extends from thetransverse support 102 along a second longitudinal axis

114 b. The first and second longitudinal axes 114 a, 114 b (representedas dotted lines in FIGS. 5 and 6) extend centrally through the first andsecond grippable elements 104 a, 104 b respectively.

The first grippable element 104 a extends from the first end 109 a ofthe transverse support 102 at a non-zero angle thereto; i.e. the firstlongitudinal axis 114 a extends from a central axis (not shown) of thefirst transverse portion 110 a at a non-zero angle. Likewise, thel0second grippable element 104 a extends from the second end 109 b of thetransverse support 102 at a non-zero angle thereto. As such, thehandlebar 100 is not a straight handlebar.

As shown in FIG. 6, the first grippable element 104 a extends from thefirst end 109 a of the transverse support 102 such that the firstlongitudinal axis 114 a follows a curved path. Likewise, the secondgrippable element 104 b extends from the second end 109 b of thetransverse support 102 such that the second longitudinal axis 114 bfollows a curved path.

In particular, the first longitudinal axis 114 a extends from the firstend 109 a at a non-zero angle to a central axis (not shown) of the firsttransverse portion 110 a, curves around to travel substantially along asecond axial direction 116, curves around to travel substantially alonga third axial direction 118, and finally curves around to travelsubstantially along the second axial direction 116 in reverse. Likewise,the second longitudinal axis 114 b follows a substantially similarcurved path. The first 106, second 116 and third 118 axial directionsare all mutually perpendicular.

The first and second longitudinal axes 114 a, 114 b and therefore thefirst and second grippable elements 104 a, 104 b, are partially arcuate;see, for example, FIGS. 5 and 6. In the illustrated embodiment, thehandlebar 100 is a drop handlebar, as found on road bicycles forexample.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first and secondlongitudinal axes 114 a, 114 b may follow any suitable path. Forexample, the grippable elements 104 a, 104 b may extend 30 from thetransverse support 102 such that they are substantially parallel to therespective first and second transverse portions 110 a, 110 b; e.g. thehandlebar 100 may be a flat handlebar, as found on mountain bicycles forexample. Alternatively, the grippable elements 104 a, 104 b and thetransverse support 102 may be shaped such that the handlebar 100 is anyone of: a bullhorn handlebar; a BMX style handlebar; a triathlon stylehandlebar; an upright/North Road handlebar; a moustache handlebar; anape hanger handlebar; and a recumbent handlebar.

Of the two grippable elements 104 a, 104 b, only the first grippableelement 104 a will be discussed further in the following. Likewise, ofthe two transverse portions 110 a, 110 b, only the first transverseportion 110 a will be discussed further in the following. However, itshould be noted that the second grippable element 104 b and the secondtransverse portion 110 b may include any of the features described belowin relation to the first grippable element 104 a and the firsttransverse portion 110 a respectively.

The first grippable element 104 a has a non-circular profile in a planenormal to the first longitudinal axis 114 a. In particular, all of thefirst grippable element 104 a has a non-circular profile in a planenormal to the first longitudinal axis; i.e. the first grippable element104 a has a non-circular profile along the entire first longitudinalaxis 114 a in planes normal to the first longitudinal axis 114 a.

The first grippable element 104 a includes a first end portion 120 awhich includes the first free end 112 a. The first grippable element 104a has a non-circular profile in a plane normal to the first longitudinalaxis 114 a along the first end portion 120 a.

As shown most clearly in FIG. 7, the non-circular profile of the firstend portion 120 a includes a substantially flat side 122. A curved edge124 joins the two ends of the flat side 122 to complete the profile ofthe first end portion 120 a. The flat side 122 faces substantially inthe direction opposite to the third axial direction 118 and generallyfaces the transverse support 102.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first end portion 120 a mayhave any suitable non-circular profile including one or more flat sides122. For example, the non-circular profile of the first end portion 120a may be polygonal.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first grippable element 104a may not have a non-circular profile along the entire firstlongitudinal axis 114 a in planes normal to the first longitudinal axis114 a. For example, the first end portion 120 a may have a circularprofile in a plane normal to the first longitudinal axis 114 a along atleast part of the first end portion 120 a. In such embodiments, one ormore portions of the first grippable element 104 a spaced from oradjacent to the first end portion 120 a will have a non-circular profilein a plane normal to the first longitudinal axis 114 a. Alternatively,only the first end portion 120 a may have a non-circular profile in aplane normal to the first longitudinal axis 114 a.

The first grippable element 104 a has a non-uniform profile in a planenormal to the first longitudinal axis 114 a along at least a portion ofthe first grippable element 104 a. By this it is meant that at least aportion of the first grippable element 104 a includes profiles in twospaced-apart planes which are both normal to the first longitudinal axis114 a, where the profile of the first grippable element 104 a in a firstof the two planes is different to the profile of the first grippableelement 104 a in a second of the two planes in regard to size and/orshape.

However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the first grippableelement 104 a may have a uniform profile in a plane normal the firstlongitudinal axis 114 a along its length.

The transverse support 102 has a non-circular profile in a plane normalto a longitudinal axis running centrally through the transverse support102. In the illustrated embodiment, the first transverse portion 110 a,the second transverse portion 110 b and the mounting portion 108 allhave a non-circular profile in a plane normal to the longitudinal axisrunning centrally through the transverse support 102. However, inalternative embodiments (not shown), only a portion or portions of thefirst transverse portion 110 a, the second transverse portion 110 band/or the mounting portion 108 may have a non-circular profile in aplane normal to the longitudinal axis running centrally through thetransverse support 102. In further alternative embodiments (not shown),the first transverse portion 110 a, the second transverse portion 110 band/or the mounting portion 108 may have a circular profile in a planenormal to a longitudinal axis running centrally through the transversesupport 102.

Since at least a portion of the first grippable element 104 a has anon-circular profile, prior art circular clamps may be unsuitable formounting attachments (e.g. a brake lever mechanism) to the firstgrippable element 104 a. For example, a prior art circular clamp may beunable to slide over a portion of the first grippable element 104 a(e.g. the first free end 112 a), and therefore a prior art circularclamp may be unable to be slid along the first grippable element 104 ato its desired position. Further, even if a prior art circular clamp isable to be slid into a desired position, the non-circular profile of thefirst grippable element 104 a at said desired position may inhibit thecircular clamp from making sufficient contact with an external surfaceof the first grippable element 104 a, such that the attachment cannot besecurely mounted.

Likewise, since at least a portion of the transverse support 102 mayhave a non-circular profile, prior art circular clamps may be unsuitablefor mounting attachments (e.g. a brake lever mechanism) to thetransverse support 102 for similar reasons as above.

To overcome these problems, the handlebar 100 includes a first mountingarrangement 126 a for mounting an attachment to the handlebar 100. Forexample, the attachment could be: a brake mechanism; a gear shiftmechanism; a combined brake and gear shift mechanism; a bell; or acyclocomputer. In the illustrated embodiment, an attachment portion 125a of the first grippable element 104 a includes the first mountingarrangement 126 a.

With reference to FIGS. 8 to 14, the first mounting arrangement 126 aincludes a mounting plate 128 which is arranged to at least partiallyabut a surface of the first grippable element 104 a. The mounting plate128 includes a first face 130, which includes a hole 132 for receiving afastener for mounting an attachment.

In the illustrated embodiment, the hole 132 is a threaded hole. However,in alternative embodiments (not shown), the hole 132 may be unthreaded.

In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting plate 128 is formed from ametallic material. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), themounting plate 128 may be formed from any suitable material, such as forexample, a stiff polymeric material.

The mounting plate 128 is at least partially located within a cavity 134formed in the first grippable element 104 a. The first face 130 is atleast partially accessible via an opening 136 in an external surface 138of the first grippable element 104 a.

The first face 130 of the mounting plate 128 has a width 140 and alength 142. In the illustrated embodiment, the length 142 is greaterthan the width 140. However, in alternative embodiments (notillustrated), the width 140 of the first face 130 may be substantiallyequal to the length 142 of the first face 130.

The opening 136 has a width 144 and a length 146. In the illustratedembodiment, the length 146 is greater than the width 144. However, inalternative embodiments (not illustrated), the width 144 of the opening136 may be substantially equal to the length 146 of the opening 136.

The width 140 and the length 142 of the first face 130 are greater thanthe width 144 and the length 146 of the opening 136 respectively; i.e.the area of the first face 130 is greater than the area of the opening136. As such, the mounting plate 128 is prevented from passing throughthe opening 136 when the mounting plate 128 is orientated such that thefirst face 130 faces the opening 136. In some orientations, the mountingplate 128 may be able to pass through the opening 136 if the width 140of the first face 130 is less than the length 146 of the opening 136,and the depth of the mounting plate 128 is less than the width 144 ofthe opening 136.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the width 140 or the length 142of the first face 130 may be less than or equal to the width 144 or thelength 146 of the opening 136 respectively. In such embodiments, themounting plate 128 may still be prevented from passing through theopening 136 when the mounting plate 128 is orientated such that thefirst face 130 faces the opening 136 since either the width 140 or thelength 142 of the first face 130 is greater than the width 144 or thelength 146 of the opening 136 respectively.

The mounting plate 128 includes a second face 148 which is opposite tothe first face 130. The second face 148 is accessible via a cavityentrance 150 in the first grippable element 104 a. In the illustratedembodiment, the hole 132 in the first face 130 of the mounting plate 128extends through the second face 148.

The cavity entrance 150 is spaced from the opening 136. In theillustrated embodiment, the cavity entrance 150 is located substantiallyon an opposite side of the first grippable element 104 a to the opening136. The cavity entrance 150 is sized relative to the mounting plate 128such that the mounting plate 128 is removable from the cavity 134 viathe cavity entrance 150.

The cavity entrance 150 is closed via a removable cap 152 (shown inisolation in FIG. 14). The removable cap 152 has a profile shaped tocorrespond to the cavity entrance 150 and is formed from a flexiblematerial (e.g. a flexible polymeric material such as rubber). Theremovable cap 152 includes a channel 154 extending around a periphery ofthe removable cap 152. The cavity entrance 150 is closed by pressing aportion of the removable cap 152 into the cavity 134 via the cavityentrance 150, until a wall surrounding the cavity entrance 150 isreceived in the channel 154. The removable cap 152 is removed via areversal of this process.

A portion of the first face 130 of the mounting plate 128 is arranged toabut a contact surface 160 of the cavity 134. The contact surface 160 isadjacent to and surrounds the opening 136. The first face 130 and thecontact surface 160 have corresponding curved profiles.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first face 130 and the contactsurface 160 have corresponding arcuate profiles. As shown in FIG. 11,the first face 130 has an arcuate profile along its length 142. As shownin FIG. 13, the first face 130 also has an arcuate profile along itswidth 140.

The corresponding curved profiles of the contact surface 160 and thefirst face 130 allow the position and the orientation of the hole 132 tobe adjusted relative to a perimeter of the opening 136 by sliding aportion of the first face 130 over the contact surface 160, whilstmaintaining contact between the contact surface 160 and said portion ofthe first face 130. The position of the hole 132 relative to theperimeter of the opening 136 is adjustable in two perpendicular axialdirections 156, 158. The orientation of the hole 132 (i.e. theorientation of an axis extending centrally through the hole 132)relative to the perimeter of the opening 136 is adjustable about the twoaxial directions 156, 158.

Advantageously, since the position and the orientation of the hole 132may be adjusted relative to the perimeter of the opening 136, theposition and the orientation of an attachment secured to the mountingplate 128 is adjustable relative to the perimeter of the opening 136.This may allow an attachment mounted to the handlebar 100 via themounting arrangement 126 a, such as a brake and/or gear lever forexample, to be adjusted such that it can be more comfortably reached bya hand gripping the handlebar 100.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the position and/or orientationof the hole 132 relative to the perimeter of the opening 136 may beadjustable in one direction only. For example, the cavity 134 may beconfigured such that the mounting plate 128 is restricted from movingalong or about one of the axial directions 156, 158.

The external surface 138 of the first grippable element 104 a thatincludes the opening 136 has a curved profile. In particular, theexternal surface 138 has an arcuate profile along the axial direction156 (as illustrated in FIG. 8), and along the axial direction 158 (asillustrated in FIG. 5). In the illustrated embodiment, the curvedprofile of the external surface 138 substantially corresponds to thecurved profile of the contact surface 160.

As demonstrated in the example below, some attachments may include anattachment mount or other supporting structure, which is arranged toabut the external surface 138 when mounted to the mounting arrangement126 a. Therefore, the curved profile of the external surface 138 allowsthe orientation of the attachment to be adjusted relative to anorientation of the handlebar 100, whilst ensuring consistent contactbetween the attachment supporting structure and the external surface138.

With reference to FIGS. 15 to 17, an attachment 162 is secured to thefirst mounting arrangement 126 a. In particular, the attachment 162 is acombined brake and gear shift mechanism, and the attachment 162 ismounted to the first grippable element 104 a of the handlebar 100.

The attachment 162 includes an attachment mount 164 and a lever 172. Anabutment surface (not shown) of the attachment mount 164 includes a hole166 (shown in phantom in FIG. 15). In the illustrated embodiment, thehole 166 is a threaded hole.

To secure the attachment 162 to the first mounting arrangement 126 a,the abutment surface of the attachment mount 164 is placed against theexternal surface 138. In the illustrated embodiment, the abutmentsurface has a curved profile corresponding to the curved profile of theexternal surface 138. As such, the position and orientation of theattachment mount 164 relative to the perimeter of the opening 136 can beadjusted whilst ensuring contact is maintained between the abutmentsurface and the external surface 138.

Once the attachment mount 164 is in a desired position relative to theperimeter of the opening 136, the mounting plate 128 is positionedwithin the cavity 134 such that the first face 130 faces the opening 136and the hole 132 in the mounting plate 128 is coincident with the hole166 in the attachment mount 164. This can be achieved by a userinserting one or more fingers into the cavity 134 via the cavityentrance 150 to manipulate the mounting plate 128.

A fastener 168 (shown in phantom in FIG. 15) is then introduced into thecavity 134 via the cavity entrance 150 and inserted through the hole 132from the second face 148 of the mounting plate 128 (shown in phantom inFIG. 15). In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener 168 is a threadedfastener, which is screwed into the threaded hole 132. The fastener 168passes through the hole 132 into the mounting plate 128 until a distalend of the fastener 168 extends away from the first face 130 of themounting plate, through the opening 136 and into the hole 166 in theattachment mount 164. The fastener 168 is screwed into the hole 166 inthe attachment mount 164 until the attachment mount 164 is fixedlysecured to the first mounting arrangement 126 a.

The attachment 162 includes a skirt 170, which is formed from a flexiblematerial (e.g. a flexible polymeric material such as rubber). The skirt170 is in a retracted position in FIG. 15. Once the attachment 162 hasbeen secured to the first mounting arrangement 126 a as described, theskirt 170 is extended over the attachment mount 164 such that it coversthe first mounting arrangement 126 a, as shown in FIG. 16. The skirt 170inhibits air flowing over the handlebar 100 from contacting the firstmounting arrangement 126 a or the attachment mount 164, and provides asmooth continuous surface for air to flow over. As such, the skirt 170acts to reduce the aerodynamic drag of the handlebar 100.

As shown in FIG. 6, the opening 136 of the first mounting arrangement126 a generally faces the second axial direction 116. As such, theattachment 162 mounted to the first mounting arrangement 126 a generallyfaces the second axial direction 116. As such, the attachment 162 may belocated proximate one or more fingers of a user's hand which is grippingthe first grippable element 104 a. For example, one or more fingers of auser's hand may be able to actuate the lever 172.

However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the opening 136 mayface in any suitable direction. In alternative embodiments (not shown),the transverse support 102 (e.g. the first transverse portion 110 a orthe mounting portion 108) may include the first mounting arrangement 126a. In such embodiments, the mounting plate 128 is arranged to at leastpartially abut a surface of the transverse support 102. The mountingplate 128 may at least partially be located within a cavity formed inthe transverse support 102. The first face 130 of the mounting plate 128may at least partially be accessible via an opening in an externalsurface of the transverse support 102. In such embodiments, the firstmounting arrangement may share any of the features described regardingthe first mounting arrangement 126 a located on the first grippableelement 104 a.

Some attachments may require cabling to extend between the attachmentand part of the bicycle 212 to which the handlebar 100 is mounted. Forexample, if the attachment is a 10 brake lever mechanism, it is commonfor brake cabling to extend between the brake lever mechanism and abrake mechanism, which is usually proximate one or both of the wheels216 a, 216 b of the bicycle 212. It is also common for such cabling torun external to the handlebar 100, and as such, be exposed to oncomingair flow when the bicycle 212 is travelling. Exposed attachment cablingmay increase the aerodynamic drag of the handlebar 100, and may alsoharm the aesthetic appearance of the handlebar 100.

To overcome these problems, the handlebar 100 is configured to minimizethe amount of attachment cabling that is exposed.

With reference to FIGS. 8, 9, 17 and 18, the handlebar 100 includes afirst tunnel opening 174 adjacent the first mounting arrangement 126 a,and a second tunnel opening 176 in the transverse support 102 and spacedfrom the first tunnel opening 174. In the illustrated embodiment, thefirst tunnel opening 174 is formed in the first grippable element 104 a,and the second tunnel opening 176 is formed in the mounting portion 108.

In FIG. 8, a frame 175 is secured to the first grippable element 104 a,and is arranged to surround the external surface 138. The frame 175includes three apertures 177 a, 177 b, 25 177 c adjacent to the firsttunnel opening 174. Cabling may extend through the apertures 177 a, 177b, 177 c into the first tunnel opening 174.

As shown in FIG. 9, the first tunnel opening 174 is formed as a singleaperture adjacent to the contact surface 160. In FIG. 9, the frame 175has been removed for clarity.

The first tunnel opening 174 and the second tunnel opening 176 are incommunication with a tunnel 178 (represented by dashed lines in FIG. 18)for receiving one or more cables therethrough. In the illustratedembodiment, the tunnel 178 is formed within the transverse support 102and the first grippable element 104 a, and extends between the firsttunnel opening 174 and the second tunnel opening 176.

As shown in FIG. 17, a first cable 180 a and a second cable 180 b extendfrom the attachment 162 into the first tunnel opening 174. The firstcable 180 a is for controlling a braking mechanism (not shown), and thesecond cable 180 b is for controlling a gear mechanism (not shown).Although not shown, the first and second cables 180 a, 180 b arearranged to extend through the tunnel 178 and out of the second tunnelopening 176 from where they can be connected to the braking mechanism(not shown) and the gear mechanism (not shown) respectively.

The arrangement of the first tunnel opening 174, the second tunnelopening 176 and the tunnel 178 helps to limit the length of the firstand the second cables 180 a, 180 b that are exposed to air travellingover the handlebar 100. As such, the effect of the first and the secondcables 180 a, 180 b on the aerodynamic drag of the handlebar 100 islimited.

FIG. 19 shows a cross-section through the attachment portion 125 a ofthe first grippable element 104 a along the line A-A shown in FIG. 5.Note that the cross-section is represented by hatching to show theexternal profile of the handlebar 100 more clearly. The cross-sectiondoes not show the internal features of the handlebar 100.

Although the plane illustrated in FIG. 19 is not necessarily normal tothe first longitudinal axis 114 a, it will be appreciated that theattachment portion 125 a has a non-circular profile in a plane normal tothe first longitudinal axis 114 a (which corresponds to a longitudinalaxis of the attachment portion 125 a).

In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment portion 125 a has asubstantially aerofoil-shaped profile 182 in a plane parallel to thesecond axial direction 116. The substantially aerofoil-shaped profile182 includes a leading edge 184 and a trailing edge 186. It will beappreciated that when an attachment is secured to the first mountingarrangement 126 a, such as the attachment 162 in FIGS. 15 to 17 forexample, the leading edge 184 will be covered by the attachment. Assuch, a portion of said attachment will form the leading edge of thesubstantially aerofoil-shaped profile 182.

It can be seen in FIG. 19 that a linear axis 188 running substantiallybetween the leading edge 184 and the trailing edge 186 is generallyaligned with the second axial direction 116. As such, air flowing overthe attachment portion 125 a and along the opposite second axialdirection 116 will flow from the leading edge 184, around the profile182 and over the trailing edge 186. It will be appreciated that thesubstantially aerofoil-shaped profile 182 will help to inhibit airtravelling around the substantially aerofoil-shaped profile 182 fromseparating from the attachment portion 125 a; i.e. help to inhibit theboundary layer from separating from the attachment portion 125 a. Assuch, the profile drag of the attachment portion 125 a will be lessrelative to if the attachment portion 125 a was a bluff body forexample.

In the illustrated embodiment, the substantially aerofoil-shaped profile182 includes a truncated trailing edge 186. However, in alternativeembodiments (not shown), the trailing edge 186 may be pointed orrounded.

Advantageously, providing the substantially aerofoil-shaped profile 182with a truncated trailing edge 186 may improve the comfort of a persongripping that portion of the handlebar 100. Further, truncating thetrailing edge 186 may have little or no adverse effect on thedrag-reducing properties of the substantially aerofoil-shaped profile182.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), one or more portions of thefirst grippable element 104 a spaced from or adjacent to the attachmentportion 125 a may have a substantially aerofoil-shaped profile in aplane parallel to the second axial direction 116.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the attachment portion 125 a maynot have a substantially aerofoil-shaped profile in a plane parallel tothe second axial direction 116.

FIG. 20 shows a cross-section through the mounting portion 108 of thetransverse support 102 along the line B-B shown in FIG. 4. Note that thecross-section is represented by hatching to show the external profile ofthe handlebar 100 more clearly.

The cross-section does not show the internal features of the handlebar100.

In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion 108 has asubstantially aerofoil-shaped profile 190 in a plane parallel to thesecond axial direction 116. The substantially aerofoil-shaped profile190 includes a leading edge 192 and a trailing edge 194.

In the illustrated embodiment, the trailing edge 194 is a truncatedtrailing edge. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), thetrailing edge 194 may be pointed or rounded.

It can be seen in FIG. 20 that a linear axis 196 running substantiallybetween the leading edge 192 and the trailing edge 194 is generallyaligned with the second axial direction 116. As such, air flowing overthe mounting portion 108 and along the opposite second axial direction116 will flow from the leading edge 192, around the profile 190 and overthe trailing edge 194.

It will be appreciated that, in use, a member of the frame 214 of thebicycle 212 will extend through the aperture 113, as shown in FIG. 22.As such, air will be inhibited or prevented from travelling through theaperture 113.

FIG. 21 shows a cross-section through the first transverse portion 110 aof the transverse support 102 along the line C-C shown in FIG. 4. Notethat the cross-section is represented by hatching to show the externalprofile of the handlebar 100 more clearly. The cross-section does notshow the internal features of the handlebar 100.

In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion 108 has asubstantially aerofoil-shaped profile 198 in a plane parallel to thesecond axial direction 116. The substantially aerofoil-shaped profile198 includes a leading edge 200 and a trailing edge 202.

In the illustrated embodiment, the trailing edge 202 is a truncatedtrailing edge. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), thetrailing edge 202 may be pointed or rounded.

It can be seen in FIG. 21 that a linear axis 204 running substantiallybetween the leading edge 200 and the trailing edge 202 is generallyaligned with the second axial direction 116. As such, air flowing overthe first transverse portion 110 a and along the opposite second axialdirection 116 will flow from the leading edge 200, around the profile198 and over the trailing edge 202.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), only the mounting portion 108 oronly the first transverse portion 110 a has a substantiallyaerofoil-shaped profile defined in a plane parallel to the second axialdirection.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), none of the transverse support102 has a substantially aerofoil-shaped profile defined in a planeparallel to the second axial direction.

With reference to FIG. 21, the first grippable element 104 a includes anergonomic portion 206. The ergonomic portion 206 is represented as theportion of the first grippable element 104 a within the dotted box inFIG. 21. The ergonomic portion 206 is shaped/contoured to correspond toat least a portion of a gripping hand (not shown).

The ergonomic portion 206 includes a wall 208, which is configured to bereceived within a space formed between the thumb and index finger of agripping hand (not shown), and to extend towards a user's wrist. Thewall 208 may provide support to a user's hand.

An external surface 210 of the ergonomic portion 206 is adjacent to thewall 208. The external surface 210 is contoured to improve the gripbetween one or more fingers of a gripping hand (not shown) and theexternal surface 210.

Advantageously, the ergonomic portion 206 may increase the comfort of auser gripping the ergonomic portion 206, as well as increasing theability of said user to grip the ergonomic portion 206.

The handlebar 100 is substantially symmetric about the plane Millustrated in FIG. 2, which is normal to the first axial direction 106.As such, the second grippable element 104 b is substantially a mirrorimage of the first grippable element 104 a about the plane M, and thesecond transverse portion 110 b is substantially a mirror image of thefirst transverse portion 110 a about the plane M. Therefore, the secondgrippable element 104 b and the second transverse portion 110 b mayinclude any of the features previously described in relation to thefirst grippable element 104 a and the first transverse portion 110 arespectively.

What is claimed is:
 1. A handlebar for controlling a travellingdirection of a vehicle, the handlebar comprising: a transverse supportfor mounting to a vehicle, the transverse support extendingsubstantially along a first axial direction; a first grippable elementextending from a first end of the transverse support, the firstgrippable element including a free end; a cavity formed in thetransverse support or the first grippable element, the cavitycommunicating with: an opening in an external surface of the transversesupport or the first grippable element, and a cavity entrance in anexternal surface of the transverse support or the first grippableelement, wherein the cavity entrance is spaced from the opening; and amounting arrangement for mounting an attachment to the handlebar, themounting arrangement comprising a mounting plate located within thecavity, the mounting plate including: a first face which abuts a contactsurface within the cavity and is accessible via the opening; a secondface which is opposite to the first face and is accessible via thecavity entrance; and a hole for receiving a fastener for mounting anattachment.
 2. The handlebar of claim 1, wherein the first face has atleast one spatial dimension which is greater than at least one spatialdimension of the opening, such that the mounting plate may be preventedfrom passing through the opening.
 3. The handlebar of claim 2, whereinan area of the first face is greater than an area of the opening.
 4. Thehandlebar of claim 2, wherein the mounting plate is removable from thecavity via the cavity entrance.
 5. The handlebar of claim 1, wherein aposition of the hole relative to a perimeter of the opening isadjustable in at least one direction.
 6. The handlebar of claim 5wherein the position of the hole relative to the perimeter of theopening is adjustable in two perpendicular directions.
 7. The handlebarof claim 1, wherein a portion of the first face is arranged to abut acontact surface of the cavity, wherein the contact surface is adjacentthe opening, and wherein the first face and the contact surface havecorresponding curved profiles.
 8. The handlebar of claim 1, wherein theexternal surface of the transverse support or the first grippableelement comprising the opening has a curved profile.
 9. The handlebar ofclaim 1, further comprising a first tunnel opening and a second tunnelopening, wherein the first tunnel opening is adjacent the mountingarrangement, wherein the second tunnel opening is formed in thetransverse support and is spaced from the first tunnel opening, whereinthe first tunnel opening and the second tunnel opening are incommunication with a tunnel for receiving a cable therethrough, thetunnel formed within at least a portion of the transverse support, 10.The handlebar of claim 9, wherein the mounting arrangement is located onthe first grippable element, and wherein the first tunnel opening isformed in the first grippable element.
 11. The handlebar of claim 9,wherein the transverse support comprises a mounting portion for mountingto a vehicle, and wherein the second tunnel opening is formed in oradjacent to the mounting portion.
 12. The handlebar of claim 1, furthercomprising an attachment secured to the mounting arrangement, whereinthe attachment is selected from the group consisting of: a brakemechanism, a gear shift mechanism, a combined brake and gear shiftmechanism, a bell, and a cyclocomputer.
 13. The handlebar of claim 11,wherein the attachment comprises an attachment mount including a hole,and wherein a fastener passes through the hole in the attachment mountand the hole in the mounting plate such that the attachment is securedto the mounting plate.
 14. The handlebar of claim 1, wherein themounting arrangement is located on an attachment portion of the firstgrippable element, wherein the attachment portion has a non-circularprofile in a plane normal to a longitudinal axis of the attachmentportion.
 15. The handlebar of claim 1143, wherein the attachment portionhas a substantially aerofoil-shaped profile in a plane parallel to asecond axial direction, the second axial direction substantiallyperpendicular to the first axial direction.
 16. The handlebar of claim1, further comprising a second grippable element extending from a secondend of the transverse support, wherein the second grippable element issubstantially a mirror image of the first grippable element about aplane normal to the first axial direction.
 17. The handlebar of claim 1in combination with a bicycle, a tricycle, or a quadracycle.